Electrical Safety Information for Landlords

 Landlords must ensure that:

• Electrical installations are safe at the start of a tenancy and remain safe throughout
• Electrical work is carried out by a competent, qualified electrician
• Safety documentation is kept up to date and available when required

Failure to meet these responsibilities can result in enforcement action and penalties. 

 An Electrical Installation Condition Report is a formal inspection of the fixed wiring and associated equipment.

Legal requirements (England)

• An EICR must be carried out at least every 5 years
• A new EICR is required at change of tenancy

A copy of the EICR must be provided to:

• Existing tenants within 28 days
• New tenants before occupation
• Local authorities on request

Remedial works

• C1 and C2 observations must be rectified
• Work must be completed within the specified timeframe
• Written confirmation of completion should be retained

C1 – Danger Present

• Immediate action required. The installation is unsafe.

C2 – Potentially Dangerous

• Urgent remedial work required to reduce risk.

C3 – Improvement Recommended

• Not unsafe, but upgrading is advised.

FI – Further Investigation

• Additional inspection required before a full assessment can be made.

 Landlord obligations

• At least one smoke alarm on each storey of the property
• Heat alarms in kitchens (recommended)
• Alarms must be working at the start of each tenancy

Best practice

• Test alarms before new tenants move in
• Replace alarms in line with manufacturer guidance (typically every 10 years)

 If appliances are provided as part of the tenancy:

• They must be safe at the start of the tenancy
• Ongoing safety should be ensured

Portable Appliance Testing (PAT)

• Not legally required in all cases, but strongly recommended
• Helps demonstrate due diligence
• Particularly important in HMOs and furnished properties

 Landlords should:

• Act promptly on reports of electrical faults
• Avoid delaying repairs where safety may be affected

Inspections should be arranged following:

• Flooding or water leaks
• Fire damage
• Unauthorised alterations

 Houses in Multiple Occupation may be subject to:

• More frequent inspections
• Additional safety measures
• Licensing conditions set by local authorities

Always check local council requirements for HMO properties. 

 It is good practice to keep:

• Current EICRs
• Certificates for remedial works
• PAT records (where applicable)
• Evidence of alarm testing and replacement

Clear records help demonstrate compliance in the event of an inspection or dispute. 

 Using a qualified electrician ensures:

• Work complies with current regulations
• Documentation is correctly issued
• Issues are identified before they become enforcement problems